Missy Elliott Opens Up About Graves’ Disease Ahead of Her First Headlining Tour

After rising to fame within the early 2000s, Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott suddenly withdrew, falling into serious decline after being diagnosed with Graves’ disease in 2008. Ten years ago, the acclaimed rapper, producer and songwriter returned to the highlight; now, as she prepares for her first headlining tour, Elliott says she’s “blessed” to be alive, sharing People Magazine“Every day I wake up, I’m happy to be here and healthy.”

The “Work It” rapper shared how she deals along with her illness ahead of “Out of this world” which opens on July 4 in Canada.

“Listen, every morning I get up, wash my face, brush my teeth and go,” she explained. “I pray as I walk, after which all these ideas start to come back to my mind. I call everyone and say, “I want to get away from this,” and so they say, “Do you know how much it costs?”

According to Mayonnaise clinic, Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism. Symptoms can include severe weight reduction, exhaustion, tremors, bulging eyes, headaches and anxiety – all symptoms Elliott says she has experienced. The disease is just not fatal, but is usually accompanied by chronic complications. Although thyroid-related complications vary by race and ethnicity, in accordance with a study published within the journal JAMA NetworkBlack people develop the disease barely more often than their white counterparts.

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After the Grammy-winning artist’s first diagnosis, she lost an amazing amount of weight while coping with the impact of the disease on her mental health. While the prolific artist “definitely” considers herself an introvert, she stepped away from the highlight to deal along with her symptoms in private.

“I feel a lot better now,” Elliott said, adding: “I do have a little pain in my leg or knee from time to time, but other than that I feel good.”

Ciara and longtime collaborators Timbaland and Busta Rhymes will join the groundbreaking rapper on her tour.

Speaking to People, Ciara said: “Missy has always been one of my biggest inspirations and was like a big sister to me.” She added: “She is the definition of a true artist. She always raised the bar to the highest level.”

In anticipation of acting on Elliott’s upcoming tour, Ciara said, “I have no doubt that we will give fans an out-of-this-world experience.”